This all-purpose gravy is a versatile and flavorful base for many Indian dishes. Made with a blend of tomatoes, onions, cashews, and aromatic spices, it can be used to prepare a variety of curries, including the classic Matter Paneer. Perfect for those who love experimenting with Indian cuisine, this recipe is simple yet packed with rich flavors.

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Ingredients
For the gravy
tomato5
onion5
oil4tbsp
cumin seeds1tsp
coriander seeds1tsp
cashew nuts25
green chilli2
coriander stem15g
ginger garlic paste1tbsp
cumin powder1tbsp
coriander powder2tbsp
Kashmiri red chilli powder2tbsp
turmeric powder1tsp
water1cup
oil4tbsp
black cardamom1
green cardamom5
black pepper1/2tsp
bay leaf3
small cinnamon stick1
cloves5- Salt to taste
For Matter Paneer
gravy2tbsp
boiled peas1/2cup
paneer100g
Water as required- Salt to taste
garam masala1/4tsp
kasuri methi1/2tsp
Chopped coriander leaves
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
181.7kcal (9.08%)
Protein
4.9g (9.84%)
Carbs
5.8g (2.11%)
Sugars
0.9g (1.74%)
Healthy Fat
9.6g
Unhealthy Fat
4.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make All-Purpose Gravy Recipe
For the gravy
- Step 1
Heat oil in a pan and add ginger garlic paste, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds. Sauté until aromatic.
- Step 2
Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Then add tomatoes, cashew nuts, green chilies, and coriander stems.
- Step 3
Cook the mixture until the tomatoes are soft. Blend the mixture into a smooth paste.
- Step 4
Heat oil in another pan and add whole spices like black cardamom, green cardamom, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
- Step 5
Add the prepared tomato-onion paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Step 6
Add water and cook on medium heat until the oil separates from the gravy.
For Matter Paneer
- Step 1
Take 2 tablespoons of the prepared gravy in a pan.
- Step 2
Add boiled peas, paneer, water as required, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
- Step 3
Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
181.7kcal (9.08%)
Protein
4.9g (9.84%)
Carbs
5.8g (2.11%)
Sugars
0.9g (1.74%)
Healthy Fat
9.6g
Unhealthy Fat
4.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a richer flavor, you can add a small amount of cream to the gravy.
Make sure to cook the gravy until the oil separates for the best taste.
You can store the gravy in the refrigerator for up to a week and use it as a base for various curries.
FAQS
Can I use this gravy for other dishes?
Yes, this all-purpose gravy can be used as a base for various Indian curries like butter chicken, vegetable curry, or kofta curry.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace paneer with tofu and use plant-based cream if adding cream.
Can I freeze the gravy?
Yes, you can freeze the gravy in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw and reheat before use.
What can I use instead of cashew nuts?
You can use almonds or skip nuts entirely, though the texture and flavor may vary.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild to medium spice level. You can adjust the green chilies and Kashmiri red chili powder to your taste.
Tripti Bhalotia
(@triptibhalotia)
Welcome to my Chefadora Page — where flavors meet comfort! I’m Tripti, your culinary guide sharing simple, soulful recipes from savory bites to sweet indulgences. Each dish is crafted to bring joy and warmth to your home cooking. Join me as we cook, learn, and create delicious memories together. 🍳✨ Follow me for more recipes and kitchen stories! #CookingWithTripti | #TriptiHomeKitchen | Open to collaborations & partnerships
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